Hakea gathering 2026

Kotahi karihi nāna ko te wao tapu nui a Tāne. 

The creation of the forests of Tāne comes from one kernel. 

Kia ora koutou,

Over the years, Hakea has grown as a living, breathing community project — a place where creativity is shared through art, music, knowledge, and deep connection. Rooted in care for people and the land, It’s a space for conscious celebration, personal growth, and remembering who we are together.

We’re excited to welcome you to the next Hakea Gathering.

This gathering continues to be guided by kaupapa that honours:

🌿 Kaitiakitanga – love and guardianship of Papatūānuku, the waterways, the forests, and all living systems.
🌈 Manaakitanga – care and respect for one another, holding space for difference and for unity.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Whanaungatanga – the beauty of kinship, relationship, and community.

This year, the land available for gathering is a little smaller 🌱 which invites us into a more intimate experience. We’ll be welcoming a reduced number of participants and encouraging carpooling 🚗 to make the most of the space we do have. While it may feel more nestled in, this simply brings us closer to each other — and to what matters most ❤️

With fewer co-creators and offerings, the rhythm of the gathering will be more spacious and intentional 🌀 There will still be music 🎶 workshops 🎨 shared meals 🥗 storytelling 📖 fireside moments 🔥 and time to swim and gather by the estuary 🌊 — where the river meets the harbour. These shared experiences are the heartbeat of Hakea 💚

In every change, we see an opportunity ✨ This year’s shape brings us even closer to the essence of what Hakea is: a community of care 🤝 gathering to inspire 🌟 celebrate life 🌺 and strengthen our connection to Earth 🌍 and each other 🤗

This year, Hakea will be a more intimate gathering 🌿 with limited spaces to nurture deeper connection, sharing, and love 💞 Spaces will be open until we reach our capacity, ensuring everyone has room to fully experience the magic of this special place 🌈

Hakea is a camping-style event ⛺ so bring your tent, campervan 🚐 or whatever makes you comfortable. There’s a large grassy area perfect for parking or pitching your tent. Bring your camping gear 🎒 food 🥑 warm clothes 🧣 swimming gear 🩱 and something to enjoy around the fire 🔥 — whether that’s marshmallows, stories, songs 🎵, or simply good company ✨ Cushions, fairy lights ✨ and anything that makes your space feel like home are warmly welcome 😊

We invite YOU to help co-create this transformational gathering 🌟 — a space to inspire positive change within ourselves, our communities, and Mother Earth 🌏 Alongside vibrant music 🎶 there will be interactive arts 🎭 creative expression 🖌️and learning spaces 📚 where you can share, collaborate 🤲 inspire 🌠 dance 💃 play 🎈 love 💖 and grow 🌻 Together, let’s awaken new ways of seeing and being in the world 🌟

Step into a space where sustainability 🌾 and abundance flourish 🌺 Come experience the magic ✨ of this beautiful land and the connections we build here 🤍

Looking forward to sharing this beautiful time with you 💫

Arohanui,
Team Hakea 🌿

🌿 Frequently Asked Questions — Hakea Gathering 2025 🌿

Q: What’s the difference between the ticket tiers?
A: Every ticket gives you access to the full Hakea experience — all the music, workshops, creativity, and community magic 💫. The different tiers reflect how much you'd like (or are able) to contribute. Choose the one that feels right for you and your whānau 💚

Q: Are kids welcome at Hakea?
A: Absolutely! Hakea is a family-friendly gathering 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 with lots of love and space for tamariki to explore, play, and be part of the flow.

Q: Are dogs or other pets allowed at Hakea?
🐾 While Hakea is home to a few well-loved and calm community animals, we ask that guests leave pets at home to help keep harmony on the land. This supports the comfort of all beings — human and animal alike. 💚

Q: What facilities are available on site?
A:

• Our iconic composting toilets 🚽 are clean, beautifully built, and part of our care for Papatūānuku.

• There's a hot shower for warming up and washing off after swims 😊

• You'll find outdoor washing stations for your kitchen gear like pots, pans, and dishes.

Hakea is simple, off-grid living — nature-connected and full of heart. 🌿

Q: Can I arrive early or stay later?
A: The gathering starts and ends at the times listed. If you're figuring out travel, we recommend posting in the Hakea Gathering 2026 Facebook event to connect with others and arrange rides 🚐🌈